Yeah, except that makes absolutely no sense. Maybe it was just a bad joke, considering he fancied himself an aspiring actor and comedian. I'm not sure how much a career you have in that, Michael.

Shaler was arrested as part of our October 2008 sting in Grand Rapids, MI, one of our three partnerships with the Michigan AG's office. He pled guilty and received 2-20 years in a Michigan jail, significant fines, and he will have to register as a sex offender.

Contributor notes from Star Kist

This chat is long. Very long. You see, Michael Shaler likes to talk. Not only that, he also likes to masterbate on cam. Michael spent time getting to know the 14 year old decoy and what she likes. Found things in common such as music and food. He encouraged her during struggles with her parent and a move to a new state. He made her feel pretty and special and smart. He listened to her and remembered what she said as if she was important. On top of all that, what could be less threatening than a man who works at a toy store, is hearing impaired and has the same insecurities most teenagers do? Well, since Michael decided to show up at the bust house to follow through on his plan to rape a 14 year old, we know he is a threat.

Michael Shaler took a plea deal which will keep him in jail until the year 2011 and he will be required to register as a sex offender upon his release. Working with the Michigan Attorney Generals Office is a pleasure. Every person I dealt with during this case was professional and very dedicated to getting guys like these put away. Thank you to each and every one of them for all their hard work.

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the Junior Contributor Training Team. I was a Junior Contributor during the time of this arrest and without this fantastic team to guide me I would have been so lost and terrified. Each arrest and conviction is due, in large part, to the training we receive. I cannot say enough about the patience and sense of humor with which they guide each of us. I thank you for not only believing in us but also for helping us believe in ourselves.

This is our 358th conviction since June of 2004, our 54th conviction for 2009, and our 30th conviction in Michigan thus far.

Conviction Counter

Number of predators convicted due to Perverted-Justice.com since June 2004:

623Chatlog Convictions: 622Research Convictions: 1

Real Stories Project

For the next six months, we're documenting actual cases of internet abductions and molestations. One case a day for at least six months. Beware, these stories can be disturbing.